Art journals are a fun way to experiment with different types of Mixed Media (Paint, Ink, Paper, Fabric, and more) and stencils to create unique background pages.
I prefer a ring-bound art journal that is 7″ Wide by 10″ High, as it allows you to open the journal, lay the pages flat, and remove or replace pages as needed.
My current Art Journal contains examples of background pages, pockets, tags, envelopes, and ephemera, along with instructions from various crafters and artists.
It’s great for keeping a record of ideas so you don’t forget the cool things you learned to create and incorporate into your journals or crafting projects.
It’s nice to remember where you learned them so that you can give credit in the future.
Create an Art Journal Background Page
One method I use to create an Art Journal background page is with watercolor paper (cold-pressed), watercolor paint, Memento Dew Drop Ink, stamps, and stencils. Layering various mixed-media elements onto the page to create a lovely nature-themed background.
Step One – Watercolor Layer
Start the first layer with watercolor paints. I choose two or three complementary colors, depending on the project, or choose them at random, to build up a stash.
I paint in random patterns, either up and down or side to side, slightly mixing and overlapping the colors to make the background coherent. Make some areas darker than others to add interest and depth.
Once you’re happy with the background, set it aside to dry completely before adding the next layer of mixed media.
Step Two – Stamp Layer
For the second layer, I used various rubber script text, ferns, flowers, and stitching stamps, all in light brown or gray permanent ink, so they fade into the background.
You can use only stamps with colored ink to decorate the background page, as seen in the yellowish-brown background with script text, ferns, and stitching. You can ink and stamp a masterboard, too.
Step Three- Layering Stencils
For the third layer, the top layer, I used Memento Dew Drop Ink and Stencils. I choose two or three complementary colors, bolder than the background colors or darker versions of the background colors.
I used a separate blending brush for each color to prevent ink from mixing. I carefully blended the color over the stencil to ink the open space, allowing me to create multicolored designs.
I applied the large decorative background elements first. Then, I added the finishing decorative elements, such as the stitching stamp. On occasion, I’ll add rubber stamps on the top to finish the design.
How to Use an Art Journal Background Page
If you have a ring-bound journal, cut it down to size, punch a few holes, and store it in your Art Journal.
Another option is to use the background page to make Junk Journal tags.
You can color-coordinate the watercolor paint, inks, and stencils to match the Junk Journal Theme. Like the tags I created from an Art Journal background page for a nature-themed woodland journal.
After cutting out the tags, I added decorative woodland elements to match the journal. You can pop them into a pocket, and the recipient will have writing space on the back of the tag for journaling.
The background pages would make great journal cards, decorative insert pages, or pockets for junk journals, and can be decorated to match your journal’s theme. The possibilities are endless!
